Reel Paddling shows best in water films

The Reel Paddling Film Festival, a collection of the world’s best films on kayaking, canoeing, standup paddle boarding, and associated lifestyles.

The festival is at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Cente on Thursday, May 2, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. Here’s a list of films that will be shown:

New Zealand Kayak Fishing with Rob Fort

Voted best kayak fishing film

Discover some of the finest ocean adventure fishing playgrounds New Zealand has to offer. Coromandel has become a hot spot for enthusiasts and local kayak angler, guide, writer and artist Rob Fort captures the essence of the sport with this production, placing viewers right in the seat of the kayak. Director and Producer: Rob Fort

Driftwood

Best stand-up paddling film

With standup paddleboards in tow, the crew has access to stunning locations inaccessible to the common surf traveler. Traveling way off the beaten path, the group becomes immersed in diverse cultures, beautiful landscapes, exotic wildlife, politically sensitive environments and remarkable surf. Director: Peter Trow and Jim Brewer. Producer: Jim Brewer

Balance

Balance shares the stories of three individuals who live their lives in very different ways. The characters are not professional athletes but rather working-class heroes—people who work to make time for the things they love. In this edition, follow Blair Trotman as he finds his path as a kayaking instructor after ending up in the military. Director and Producer: Kelsey Thompso. www.balancetv.net

Facing Waves – Sea Kayaking with Whales

Currents: The Grand Canyon

A journey through the Grand Canyon is a once in a lifetime trip for many. However, the Colorado River as we know it may not exist if it wasn’t for conservation initiatives undertaken over the years. Take a journey through the Grand Canyon with those who have fought to preserve this national wonder. Director and Producer: Mike McKay. www.five2nine.ca.

A Hand to Stand

Seven students in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest build their own wooden standup paddleboards, using traditional knowledge in a modern world. In a nation where the odds are stacked against Aboriginals, finishing school and breaking out of the poverty trap, these kids learn persistence and perseverance. Director: Lindsay Marie Stewart and Matt Miles. Producer: Lindsay Marie Stewart.www.lindsaymariestewart.ca

Of Souls + Water

From Forge Motion Pictures comes the groundbreaking web series Of Souls + Water. Filmed in exquisite high definition, five episodes tell the real stories of five character archetypes, all bound together by the common theme of water. Combining artistry, adventure and ethos, Of Souls + Water redefines the genre of outdoor film. Director: Skip Armstrong Producer: Anson Fogel/Forge Motion Pictures. www.forgemotionpictures.com

Huck

Best whitewater paddling film

Waterfall kayaking has emerged as a dominant subset of whitewater paddling, thrilling audiences and pushing athletes to constantly attempt higher falls. It is consistently glorified and frequently misunderstood by all but the small group of kayakers who make waterfalls their lives. Evan Garcia explores what it means to kayak off of big waterfalls, considering both the risks and rewards of a life driven by freefall. Director: Andy Maser www.andymaser.com

Quebec Connection

Quebec Connection showcases some of the best destinations for class V paddlers in eastern Canada. These paddlers put a lot of time and energy into promoting whitewater kayaking and share their love for the sport, giving a taste of what can be done in kayaks around Quebec. Director and Producer: Emrick Blanchette. www.quebec-conection.com